How the clock change can accidentally add to your energy bill

Key takeaways

• When the clocks go forward to British Summer Time on March 29, some devices like energy meters may not update automatically, which can affect customers on Economy 7 tariffs.
• Economy 7 offers cheaper off‑peak electricity at certain times, but if your meter clock doesn’t change while supplier‑set off‑peak hours do, you could be charged peak rates unexpectedly.
• If this happens, you may need to adjust appliance timers and contact your energy provider, who can often fix timing issues remotely or arrange a technician visit.

On March 29^th, the clocks will spring forward to British Summer Time (BST). While the clocks on most of your devices should adjust automatically to the change, some devices won’t. This can include timers on your energy meter.

If you’re on a time-of-use tariff, also known as Economy 7, you need to be aware that the clock on the meter may not automatically change, but the off-peak times set by the provider will change with the clocks.

This mean that you might be charged the higher single rate tariff for your energy use during what you might think is off-peak hours.

What is Economy 7?

Economy 7 is an energy plan that offers two different energy prices depending on when you use it. It’s also referred to as a multi-rate plan or a differential plan.

During times of day when people are most likely to use energy – peak times – a higher rate is applied. Using energy during off-peak hours, on the other hand, gets you cheaper energy.

For some providers the cost of off-peak energy use can be as much as 50% cheaper compared to peak hours.

How can I tell when off-peak hours start?

Economy 7 plans will usually come with a smart meter that shows you two different readings – one for standard energy use.

You won’t be shown any obvious indicators that off-peak hours have started on your smart meter, so it’s important that you keep track of your energy bill.

If your smart meter hasn’t recognised that the clocks have changed, you’ll need to adjust any timers you have set on the appliances around your home, such as your hot water tank or washing machine.

Off-peak times are defined by your supplier, so unfortunately you can’t just adjust them to suit your needs.

If you think there is something wrong with the timings on your meter and you’re being charged more than you should be, you should contact your provider to report the problem.

They may be able to fix the problem remotely or send out a technician to help.